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Tag Archives: software

This week, Claro Software are pushing out a minor update to their text-to-speech software, ClaroRead. It is a point update with some simple improvements to make servicing the software easier, to extend speech, and make a lot of small technical improvements.

What is included in the update?

The update to version 7.1 includes a range of new features and technical changes to ClaroRead. A scan-from-screen tool has been integrated into ClaroRead Standard. This was a feature that was previously limited to Plus and Pro, and allows you to scan an inaccessible part of a webpage or document and paste the text into another application. The text can then be read aloud by pressing the play button on the toolbar. This feature can be quickly launched using the key combination Ctrl + Shift + S. The update also allows you to install up to eighty additional voices covering 30 languages via the Claro Voice Setup program.

As we come closer to August, we here at dyslexic.com wanted to take a look at the latest assistive technology products which have been released this month. New additions for August updates to Spellex Dictation Gold and Ghotit Real Writer & Reader software. This month’s blog is a good one as we will take a look at the newest technology which will be available for teachers and students to use in the new school term.

As always, we encourage you to sign up to our newsletter to ensure you don’t miss next month’s item. Please follow this link to sign up to the dyslexic.com newsletter. Plus, when you sign up you will receive a 10% off coupon code to use on dyslexic.com!

Latest Assistive Technology Software

This month, Ghotit released a brand new version of Ghotit Real Writer & Reader which has some new and exciting features that have been added in. The software includes patented technology to help people with dyslexia and dysgraphia to overcome many of the common issues faced whilst writing text. New features include the integration of a context-sensitive and phonetic spell checker, speech feedback, reading assistance with dual highlighting and a screenshot reader to read aloud any text from images and inaccessible documents.

This month, Spellex released an update to their vocabulary software, Spellex Dictation Gold. The software works with speech recognition programs such as Dragon NaturallySpeaking or Microsoft, and provides specialised vocabularies for subjects such as medicine, law, veterinary medicine and bioscientific/engineering. Please contact us by emailing ecommerce@dyslexic.com if you would like to upgrade your software to the latest version.

New features include an enhanced dictionary and spellchecker which features complex terminology. This allows you to dictate your ideas without errors or disruption. It has also integrated the ‘Spellex Suite’ which gives quick definitions for over 550,000 words, human voice word pronunciations and a handy thesaurus to help improve writing. The final new feature added to Spellex Dictation Gold is the inclusion of DysLex™ font, a dyslexia friendly font, which helps to reduce jumbling letters and eases frustration when reading.

Latest Assistive Technology Apps

This month, iansyst have released a brand new update to the literacy support and accessibility app, CapturaTalk. This update has integrated lots of new and improved features. For current users of CapturaTalk, your app will automatically update via the App Store. If you are not a current user, you can download CapturaTalk by following this link to the App Store or Google Play.

CapturaTalk is an app for iOS and Android devices which allows you to transform your smartphone or tablet into a truly accessible device and access content independently in a way that suits you. It’s a great app for those with dyslexia or visual impairments as it includes features such as text-to-speech technology, optical character recognition technology and personalisation features such as tinted overlays.

· Windows 10

Windows have also released an impressive accessibility update this month to celebrate Windows 10 reaching its 1st Birthday. The update aims to make Windows 10 more accessible to support the 1 billion+ disabled users across the globe. Improvements have been made to the screen reading feature, apps such as Cortana and Microsoft Edge have been made more accessible, and tools have been introduced to make accessibility easier for developers. The Windows 10 Anniversary Update is scheduled to be rolled out to users on 2nd August. Please follow this link to find out more about the Windows 10 Anniversary Update.

This month, we have launched Ghotit Real Writer & Reader 5 on dyslexic.com – a brand new version of the reading and writing software which supports individuals with dyslexia, dysgraphia and other learning disabilities. If you would like to find out more about the software and how it could help you, please comment on our blog below!

What is Ghotit Real Writer and Reader?

Ghotit Real Writer and Reader is assistive technology software that helps people overcome many of the common issues that are faced whilst writing text. It includes patented technology which provides the most appropriate corrections for spelling, grammar and punctuation mistakes by looking at the intended meaning of the piece of text.

What new features does version 5 bring?

The brand new version of Ghotit Real Writer and Reader brings a wealth of new features to help those with dyslexia to read and write:

Quick-spell word prediction with instant correction

Context-sensitive and phonetic spell checker to correct words such as ‘notest’ to ‘noticed’

Advanced grammar and punctuation corrector

Effective proof-reader

Speech feedback

Integrated English dictionary which supports US, UK, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and South African English

Reading assistance with dual highlighting

Screenshot reader to read aloud any text on the screen to read text from images, locked PDF files and inaccessible documents

Word banks for word prediction based on different topics

Integration with all text editing applications

Standalone “Dyslexia Text Editor”

How does the software support dyslexic people?

The software is a great tool for those with dyslexia as it tackles many of the common problems that they may face whilst writing. This includes difficulties with reading, writing, spelling, proofing and accessing documents in different formats.

Sonocent Audio Notetaker is a popular software to support note taking for students in lectures and group meetings. It can also be helpful for employees to use whilst at work during meetings or brainstorming sessions. It is available on PC and Mac,with an accompanying iOS and Android app, Sonocent Recorder.

Put simply, Audio Notetaker breaks the note taking process into steps so that individuals with dyslexia can take accurate and comprehensive notes. Recorded or imported audio is uploaded to the software and displayed as coloured chunks for each phrase. Slides, images and text notes can also be added alongside the relevant parts of the recording to create handy resources.

There are many different types of note taking software for students and employees; however Audio Notetaker is always a popular choice because it works so well and has so many great features packed in. Here are my top 5 benefits of using Audio Notetaker to help you take notes…

5 key benefits of using Audio Notetaker

1. Use colour highlighting to add meaning to your notes Using the coloured highlighter tool, you can add additional meaning to your notes by highlighting audio chunks that are important, audio that you didn’t quite understand, or audio that is a change of topic. Using this colour, you can extract your audio into new projects to create clear and concise notes.

3. Import images, slides and PDF documents To create truly comprehensive notes, Audio Notetaker allows you to import audio, text, images, slides and PDF documents to your project. This is extremely helpful for students who are using the software to help them take notes within a lecture. Simply record audio using a digital recorder, use index marks when the slide changes and import the PowerPoint presentation from your lecture. When you upload your audio recording and PowerPoint presentation to your project, your audio and slides will match up together.

4. Record and annotate with your smartphone app Using the accompanying free app, Sonocent Recorder, you can take high-quality recordings using your smartphone or tablet. Just like the software, you can highlight key points in your audio using colour highlighting tools. You can also add images from your camera or photo library alongside your audio. Once you’ve finished recording, simply transfer your file to Audio Notetaker via Wi-Fi.

5. Use audio from different devices and locations Using Audio Notetaker version 4, there has been a huge jump in audio quality and you are now able to import audio from a variety of sources. Alongside your smartphone app, you can import audio from a digital recorder, videos, Skype, a podcast and much more. With the audio clean-up tool, you can instantly remove unwanted noises such as hisses or keyboard taps.It’s quite hard to narrow down the benefits of using Audio Notetaker software to just 5 as there are so many great features. To find out more, please follow this link where you can read more and purchase Audio Notetaker >> http://ian.lt/19ni1Ri

To help you stay up to date with the latest trends surrounding assistive technology, we have compiled the latest and most popular software, hardware and apps to support those with dyslexia and other disabilities. This will form part of a monthly update on the latest assistive technology on the Dyslexic.com blog. Please sign up to our newsletter to make sure you don’t miss June’s item >> http://ian.lt/1O2BAv9

Apps

The trends surrounding assistive technology in May have moved even closer towards apps for smartphones and tablet devices. New apps that have been released include support for those with dyslexia, dyscalculia,low vision and many more disabilities. Assistive Technology apps have become increasingly popular in the past year and are being used in environments such as schools and in the workplace. Whether they are being used on their own or to accompany a desktop version of software, assistive technology apps are a great tool to support those with disabilities.

iShould supports individuals with time-management difficulties, such as dyslexia. It offers anew way to organise and manage your activities, allowing you to plan, share and achieve your goals. The app works together with an online system where you can develop ideas and plan activities according to your personal preferences. The iShould app is available on iOS and Android devices.

CapturaTalk Junior is a literacy support app for iOS devices from iansyst and has been designed to assist younger users with dyslexia and other specific learning disabilities.The app includes the powerful Optical Character Recognition technology from ABBYY allowing users to take a photograph of printed text and convert this into digital text that can be edited in Word or other text editors. CapturaTalk Junior also contains accessibility features such as text-to-speech technology, coloured overlays and dyslexia friendly fonts.

Software and Hardware

The C-Pen Reader is a small, portable and lightweight scanning pen which supports those with reading difficulties such as dyslexia, or those learning English as a second language. The pen can be run across any printed text from books, newspapers, printed labels and more, and be read aloud from a naturally speaking English text-to-speech engine. This allows you to hear the correct pronunciations of words, as well as hear the word definition read aloud. The C-Pen Reader scanning pen is compatible with both PC and Mac, allowing users to transfer scanned text to a text editor.

Clicker 7 is a popular literacy support software which is designed to develop reading and writing skills in users of all ages and abilities. It features a wide range of writing tools including word prediction, realistic speech feedback and a built-in, child-friendly word processor. Clicker 7 is often used in schools as it contains a number of tools for teachers. One useful tool that is used is ‘Word Pool’ where teachers can add in unusual words or names to Clicker’s knowledge base to ensure it is recognised by the software.

The final new addition in the world of assistive technology are the Eye Lighter Reading Rulers which are now available as a 10 pack containing green, purple, orange, pink, blue and yellow reading rulers. The 6” transparent plastic highlighter helps you to maintain focus, concentration and comprehension whilst reading. The design of the Eye Lighter allows you to track 1, 2 or 3 lines at a time whilst also helping you to not lose your place or reread lines.

You can keep up to date with the latest assistive technology products right here on the Dyslexic.com blog. Alternatively, you can view more information from iansyst by following this link >> http://ian.lt/1SsdalA

As the power of computers increases, so too does the range of features that assistivetechnology solutions can offer. Each new version of a product can include moreand more exciting solutions to everyday problems that disabled people face.Below are just a few examples of some of the new developments that areavailable to purchase from iansyst.

ClaroRead is a popular text to speechsoftware package that has recently been updated to its seventh edition. ClaroRead 7 includes a range of upgradedfeatures that make it easier and more helpful than ever before. As you wouldexpect, it is fully compatible with both Microsoft 10 and windows edge. TheClaro voice setup gives you access to 80 different voices to choose from. Italso comes with an exciting new feature called Claro cloud, allowing you toinstall your software across multiple devices, for instance you could have oneat home, one at work and one at university so the software is always there when youneed it.

There is also anew addition to the range of Dragonvoice recognition products. DragonProfessional Individual builds on all the great features that are found inthe previous edition by introducing some exciting new features. It includes anew proofreading feature that plays back the original recording alongsidehighlighting the spoken work in the transcribed text. Making it quick and easyto make sure that your transcription is 100% accurate. In addition to this, anycustom words or commands that you set whilst using Dragon Professional Individual are now saved to the cloud, meaningthat they will work on any dragon product that you are logged into withouthaving to set them up again for each device.

For those thatfind text on a screen too small to read easily Supernova is an excellent solution that many people find helpful.Fully compatible with windows 10, and with touch screen machines. It allows youto magnify any aria of the screen up to 64 times. It also includes a screenreader that can read onscreen text, or can read aloud what you type, making ita comprehensive assistive tool for those with visual impairments.

If you have anyquestions about the above products. Or other solutions that we have to offer,feel free to give us a call. Our experienced team are always at hand to helpyou find the perfect solution to your needs.

Mind mapping is an established learning and organisational tool. It allows users to create maps and diagrams and can be used in a variety of subject areas and a wide range of tasks, including brainstorming, note-taking, revision, illustrating concepts, problem solving and outlining of essays, projects and presentations.

Those with dyslexia can benefit from mind mapping software if they struggle to get their thoughts and ideas down in a structured way. It is also helpful software for those who prefer visual working as opposed to linear lists.

Mind mapping software can offer those with dyslexia greater confidence and independence, allowing them to map out their ideas and reducing the need for a helper.

What software is available?

There is a variety of mind mapping software that is suited for different people:

Inspiration is a powerful learning tool used to help with visual thinking and learning strategies. Those with dyslexia can use the software for visual mapping, outlining, writing and making presentations, using text, symbols and pictures to represent their ideas. It allows them to brainstorm their ideas, structure their thoughts and visually communicate concepts. Inspiration features a built-in text-to-speech function, one-button transfer to a word processor, notes functions, templates, and various export features including export as .jpg, .png and more. Inspiration is available as a box copy or digital download, and for Windows and Mac. Find out more about Inspiration 9 and our inspiration 9 download by following this link.

Inspiration also produce a version suited for young children

Kidspiration combines pictures, text, numbers and spoken words to develop vocabulary, word recognition, reading for comprehension, writing and critical thinking skills. It is available as a box copy and digital download, for Windows and Mac. To find out more about Kidspiration, please call us on +44 (0) 1223 420101.

MindView enhances an individual’s ability to visualise, organise and present information. It allows those with dyslexia to plan, organise and develop their ideas quickly. It features a simplified interface for easier navigation and is integrated with Dragon so students can dictate their ideas. MindView also has predictive text suggestions powered by Texthelp and a high contrast mode for those who experience visual stress. The software also features assistive technology templates which helps individuals structure their ideas in a logical way. MindView is available as a box copy for Windows and Mac. To find out more about MindView, please call us on +44 (0) 1223 420101.

MindGenius is mind mapping software that contains specific resources created by and with those in the education field. The software helps those with dyslexia to get their ideas down on paper and gain a clear understanding of what needs to be done and action it successfully. Mind maps can be exported to a variety of different formats including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Project. MindGenius is the only product to provide a ‘map explorer’ that enables the user to move quickly between high level and detailed views of information. It is available as a digital download for Windows. Find out more about MindGenius by following this link >> http://ian.lt/1OXD7Zd

MindMeister is an award-winning online mind mapping software that allows users to create mind maps at school, at home, at the office and even on the go. It is very simple and easy to use, so is suitable from KS1 up to business level. It allows dyslexic users to collaborate and brainstorm online, plan projects and develop business strategies, create presentations and utilise mind maps to aid learning. To find out more about MindMeister, please call us on +44 (0) 1223 420101.

Mind mapping is an established learning and organisational tool. It allows users to create maps and diagrams and can be used in a variety of subject areas and a wide range of tasks, including brainstorming, note-taking, revision, illustrating concepts, problem solving and outlining of essays, projects and presentations.

Those with dyslexia can benefit from mind mapping software if they struggle to get their thoughts and ideas down in a structured way. It is also helpful software for those who prefer visual working as opposed to linear lists.

Mind mapping software can offer those with dyslexia greater confidence and independence, allowing them to map out their ideas and reducing the need for a helper.

What software is available?

There is a variety of mind mapping software that is suited for different people:

Inspiration is a powerful learning tool used to help with visual thinking and learning strategies. Those with dyslexia can use the software for visual mapping, outlining, writing and making presentations, using text, symbols and pictures to represent their ideas. It allows them to brainstorm their ideas, structure their thoughts and visually communicate concepts. Inspiration features a built-in text-to-speech function, one-button transfer to a word processor, notes functions, templates, and various export features including export as .jpg, .png and more. Inspiration is available as a box copy or digital download, and for Windows and Mac. Find out more about Inspiration 9 and our inspiration 9 download by following this link.

Inspiration also produce a version suited for young children

Kidspiration combines pictures, text, numbers and spoken words to develop vocabulary, word recognition, reading for comprehension, writing and critical thinking skills. It is available as a box copy and digital download, for Windows and Mac. To find out more about Kidspiration, please call us on +44 (0) 1223 420101.

MindView enhances an individual’s ability to visualise, organise and present information. It allows those with dyslexia to plan, organise and develop their ideas quickly. It features a simplified interface for easier navigation and is integrated with Dragon so students can dictate their ideas. MindView also has predictive text suggestions powered by Texthelp and a high contrast mode for those who experience visual stress. The software also features assistive technology templates which helps individuals structure their ideas in a logical way. MindView is available as a box copy for Windows and Mac. To find out more about MindView, please call us on +44 (0) 1223 420101.

MindGenius is mind mapping software that contains specific resources created by and with those in the education field. The software helps those with dyslexia to get their ideas down on paper and gain a clear understanding of what needs to be done and action it successfully. Mind maps can be exported to a variety of different formats including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Project. MindGenius is the only product to provide a ‘map explorer’ that enables the user to move quickly between high level and detailed views of information. It is available as a digital download for Windows. Find out more about MindGenius by following this link >> http://ian.lt/1OXD7Zd

MindMeister is an award-winning online mind mapping software that allows users to create mind maps at school, at home, at the office and even on the go. It is very simple and easy to use, so is suitable from KS1 up to business level. It allows dyslexic users to collaborate and brainstorm online, plan projects and develop business strategies, create presentations and utilise mind maps to aid learning. To find out more about MindMeister, please call us on +44 (0) 1223 420101.

Yesterday Claro Software announced the release of a brand new version of their popular literacy support software, ClaroRead Version 7. ClaroRead is a hugely popular text-to-speech program that helps users of all ages and abilities to read and write. Version 7 has bought lots of new and improved features to the assistive technology software, making this version the best yet. It has been developed in line with Windows 10 and Microsoft Edge and is fully compatible with the new operating system.

ClaroRead Version 7 includes new features to enhance reading and proofing for users. You are now able to adjust text widths and add in one or two narrow columns, which can make long pieces of text easier to read. There is also a new option to remove highlighting which helps users to proofread without distraction. By using the ‘change text width’ and ‘highlight none’ options, your word processor transforms into a scrolling text reader.

Version 7 includes a number of bundled programmes, including Claro Voice Setup. This allows you to download up to 80 high-quality voices. The voices available include different accents and genders of English, plus French, German, Spanish and many other voices. This is extremely helpful for users where English is a second language (ESL). Claro AudioNote is also bundled into ClaroRead Version 7. This software helps users who struggle with notetaking and enables them to record meeting and lecture audio notes directly into their Microsoft Word documents or PowerPoint presentations. Recordings can be sent to Dragon NaturallySpeaking to be converted into editable text. Claro AudioNote helps users with dyslexia, where information is often difficult to take in. Other small programs are bundled into ClaroRead Version 7: ClaroIdeas (mind mapping tool), ScreenRuler (reading ruler and screen colour tinting tool) and ClaroCapture (study tool).

ClaroRead Cloud is a new and exciting feature that allows you to install your copy of ClaroRead onto multiple machines. This is very handy for those who need to use ClaroRead in the office or at school and at home. ClaroRead Cloud also enables those who have purchased ClaroRead for Windows to download ClaroRead for Mac (and vice versa).

The new version of ClaroRead also includes numerous improvements such as an updated phonetic and dyslexic spelling list – there are now 50,000 custom spelling corrections! A full list of new features and technical changes can be viewed on Claro Software’s Technical Support page.

We are pleased to announce that the powerful spellchecking and language support software, VeritySpell, is now available to purchase from Dyslexic.com as a digital download!

Digital downloads are useful as you receive the software instantly via your email address. It also enables us to be able to offer the latest software at the best possible price!

VeritySpell provides spelling, homophone and dictionary support for those who find a standard spell-checker insufficient. It can be used in virtually any application, whether composing text in Microsoft Word, writing and instant message or filling in a form on a web page.

The software helps distinguish similar sounding words, like which or witch, by showing them in an every-day language context. It also comes with a built-in dictionary and thesaurus which provides definitions, similar words and related words.